Eight people facing charges after crackdown on fentanyl dealers in Lethbridge

Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams logo. (ALERT)

Eight people are facing charges after a drug bust in Lethbridge targeting fentanyl dealers in the downtown core.

The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams' (ALERT) organized crime unit says the investigation, which wrapped on Dec. 6, saw approximately 12.51 grams of fentanyl seized, in addition to 2.60 grams of methamphetamine.

"The killing power of fentanyl is measured in micrograms, so getting any amount off the street is a success," said Staff Sgt. Trevor Sheppard in a news release.

"More importantly, these suspects were actively involved in selling fentanyl and further exacerbating the opioid crisis in our community."

While three of the accused have been taken into custody, five others are wanted on arrest warrants, including:

Randi Bull Calf, 24, Kaylene Jacklin, 39, Justin Keshane, 41, Celina Twigg, 28, and Jason Mercer, 26.

Albertans who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).